Myth 100: “Chameleon females need deep laybin”

The Misguided Advice

"Use reptisoil and calcium sand, slightly dampened, about 6 inches deep, with a climbing stick to exit the box."

This recommendation is not only misleading but potentially dangerous. It assumes that depth equals suitability, which is false for most chameleon species.

The Reality

Depth is one of the mistakes.

Chameleon females do not require deep lay bins. In fact, excessive depth can exhaust them and cause tunnel collapse.

• Optimal depth: 3–4 inches is sufficient. Most species lay eggs in shallow tunnels, typically 2–3 inches below the surface.

•  Excavation dynamics: As females dig, the displaced soil naturally increases the effective depth, so starting shallow is enough.

• Risks of deep substrate:• Collapse of loose tunnels → risk of suffocation.

• Excessive digging → exhaustion, refusal to lay, or death.

Substrate Requirements

• Moist, not wet: Prevents refusal to lay; too wet leads to instability.

• Firm, not soft: Ensures tunnels hold without collapse.

• Shallow, not deep: Avoids exhaustion and collapse risks.

• Moderate temperature (~20 °C or slightly higher): Encourages acceptance; species‑dependent tolerance.

Species Notes

• Most chameleons: Shallow tunnels (2–3 inches), F. pardalis 2-3in, C. calyptratus 4-5in)

• Rare exceptions: e.g. Furcifer verrucosus may dig up to 50 cm in extreme natural conditions. This is an ecological adaptation, not a general rule.

Myth‑Busting Summary

The belief that females need "deep lay bins" is a dangerous oversimplification. Correct husbandry requires shallow, firm, moist substrate at moderate temperatures. Deep bins are not only unnecessary but can be fatal.